By Rosemary Phillips
Ken Lavigne believes.
So much so that the popular Vancouver Island-based tenor lives his hopes and dreams with all his heart.
In a season dedicated to Music for Your Heart and Soul, the Vancouver Island Symphony, under the baton of Pierre Simard, presents Believe with guest artist Lavigne on Feb. 18 at the Port Theatre.
Music fans might remember Lavigne for his memorable trip to New York in 2009 when he went, against all odds, with one of his dreams to perform at Carnegie Hall, the world’s most prestigious concert stage.
Accompanied by the New York Pops Orchestra under the baton of Simon Capet, Lavigne received three standing ovations and excellent reviews from New York critics, who described his voice like “liquid gold.”
Since then Lavigne performed in Los Angeles and Victoria with Grammy Award-winning composer David Foster, as well as a tour through the U.S.
And while one dream has been fulfilled, Lavigne continues to further his passion, performing with symphonies and orchestras internationally.
“I want to take every opportunity I do have in front of an audience to make it as memorable a moment as possible,” Lavigne said. “I believe that when you talk about following your dreams you leave people elated and inspired, that they too can do what they want to do, they can make their dreams happen.
“You may have to work hard, and you may not end up where you envisioned, but it’s a beautiful ride and the destination is a good one.”
And as Lavigne follows his dreams his voice continues to grow and evolve.
“It’s maturing with age like a wine. I’m at an age where things are falling into place; before, I would struggle for a particular sound, now it is happening automatically. The style of music is evolving and things are becoming easier ... but that comes from hard work.”
Throughout a program of familiar ballads, show tunes and classical cross-over favourites Lavigne weaves a thread, joining each song with anecdotes, mostly of the humorous kind, that have audiences rollicking with laughter.
The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $52; $49/seniors; $20/students. Please call 250-754-8550 or visit www.porttheatre.com.
For more information, please visit www.vancouverislandsymphony.com.